The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is entering its final stage, with three teams already securing their spots in the semifinals. India and New Zealand have qualified from Group A, while Australia has booked a place from Group B. The big question now is - who will India face in the semifinals? Based on the current standings, India is most likely to play against Australia.
India's semifinal set for March 4 in Dubai
Having defeated Bangladesh and Pakistan, India has confirmed its semifinal berth. Their final league-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 will determine whether they finish first or second in Group A.
Regardless of the result, India's semifinal match is scheduled for March 4 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Meanwhile, the second semifinal will be held in Lahore on March 5.
India vs Australia: The most likely scenario
If India defeats New Zealand, they will top Group A and face the second-placed team from Group B - which could be Australia. The final matchups depend on the results of two crucial games:
South Africa vs England (March 1) – A win for South Africa will confirm their top spot in Group B.
India vs New Zealand (March 2) – A win for India will ensure they finish first in Group A.
If both these results go as expected, the semifinal matchups will be:
March 4: India vs Australia (Dubai)
March 5: South Africa vs New Zealand (Lahore)
Could India face South Africa instead in semis?
There are two scenarios where India could face South Africa in the semifinal:
If India loses to New Zealand and South Africa defeats England, then India will finish second in Group A and face South Africa in the first semifinal.
If India beats New Zealand but South Africa loses to England, South Africa could drop to second place in Group B, setting up an India vs South Africa semifinal.
What needs to happen for an India vs Australia semifinal?
South Africa defeats England - South Africa finishes top of Group B.
India defeats New Zealand - India finishes top of Group A.
Australia remains second in Group B - India vs Australia in the semifinal.
With just two group-stage matches remaining, the semifinal lineups will soon be decided.